The EKG demonstrates bradycardia with peaked T waves, loss of P waves, and a widening of the QRS complex. This is consistent with hyperkalemia.

The patient should be treated with calcium for myocardial protection. A potassium level should be checked and other medications to lower the potassium should be administered.

The EKG shows sinus bradycardia with a PAC. There are peaked T waves, loss of P waves, and a widening of the QRS complex.

Labs revealed BUN 90, Creatinine 9, potassium 8.1.

The patient was treated with calcium which improved the EKG. He also was given glucose/insulin and albuterol and was sent for emergent dialysis.

Hyperkalemia causes a series of changes to the EKG. An early sign is peaked T waves. This is followed by flattening of P waves, widening of the QRS complex and ultimately a sine wave. Whenever you see a wide QRS complex with a bizarre rhythm or what looks like “slow V-tach”, think about hyperkalemia.